NZ Marine's technology behind yachting win

Lloyd Stevenson of New Zealand built INEOS catalyst chase boat. Photo: Supplied.

Emirates Team New Zealand has successfully defended its title in the 37th America’s Cup, overcoming fierce competition from teams representing the United Kingdom, Italy, Switzerland, France, and the USA.

This victory underscores New Zealand's reputation as a powerhouse in sailing, showcasing both its elite sailors and cutting-edge boatbuilding technology.

The NZ Marine Industry Association has extended its congratulations to Emirates Team New Zealand, highlighting the record-setting achievements on the water throughout this thrilling week of racing.

The combination of New Zealand’s innovative marine technology and the skill of its sailors played a pivotal role in reaching new heights in the competition.

As the world’s top sailors competed, New Zealand's advancements in marine innovation became evident.

New Zealand built Salthouse Coach boats have been an integral feature of the Cup. Photo: Supplied.

The design of the AC75 yachts, which achieved a staggering speed of 102 km/h, exemplifies the nation’s leadership in boatbuilding. New Zealand companies supplied vital components that enhanced performance across the board, with technology utilized not only by the home team but also by other competitors.

The Marine and Specialised Technologies Academy (MAST) in New Zealand continues to nurture future talent, training around 700 marine specialists and boatbuilders annually in a program that has gained international recognition.

Emirates Team New Zealand has transformed yacht racing with foiling technology, leading to the development of the fastest and lightest boats. Notable contributions include Southern Spars, which crafted 26.5-meter carbon fibre masts tailored to the strict specifications of the class, and North Sails, which provided sails for multiple teams.

Additionally, Adhesive Technologies New Zealand supplied essential resins and adhesives for the boats, while Gurit offered composite engineering services. C-Tech has been a long-time supplier of battens since 2003, focusing on advanced research to enhance the durability of components used in America’s Cup racing.

New Zealands Protector boats have been a feature on the course.Photo: Supplied.

Support vessels played a crucial role as well, with Rayglass Boats, Salthouse Coach Boats, and Lloyd Stevenson Boatbuilders providing chase and support boats. Lloyd Stevenson Boatbuilders constructed Catalyst boats for both Emirates Team New Zealand and INEOS, essential for the competition's operations. Rayglass Boats contributed 30 vessels, prominently displayed in the Barcelona race village.

New Zealand technology firm Predictwind delivered top-tier weather forecasting for the sailors, covering over 20,000 sites globally. Another innovator, PURE Design & Engineering, created the one-design foil arms used by all teams, further highlighting New Zealand's role in advancing competitive sailing.

As the America’s Cup garners attention from a worldwide audience, New Zealand’s marine industry is poised to continue setting new records and pushing the limits of what is possible on the water. The New Zealand Marine Industry remains proud to support Emirates Team New Zealand and contribute to the legacy of America’s Cup boatbuilding, a tradition spanning 35 years.

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